We got by each day even though we were not rich
Written , FinancesMy name is Mashudu. I am a young woman from Limpopo. I grew up surrounded by both my parents and grandparents. We were not rich, but we got by each day.
After I completed my matric in 2008, I had already applied at a University. I had achieved distinctions, so acceptance was easy, but I knew that my family would not have the money. My mom and my grandmother (who was now a widow after losing my grandfather the year before) did all they could so that I could register and I started applying for study loans. These loans didn't cover all the needs so my family still needed to assist. My struggles drove my parents apart leaving only my mom to deal with everything.
To cut a long story short, after all the sleepless nights, the no-food nights, no-warm-clothes winters and everything else, I graduated with an engineering diploma and I am working, studying further and engaged to the most amazing man. I can now take care of my family.
My biggest lesson is "circumstances must not cloud your vision to see the bright future ahead of you".
Featured
Learning to walk again after a traumatic accident
Read more about Learning to walk again after a traumatic accidentYou may also like
The power of heritage in South Africa
South Africa has a complex past, so a day like Heritage Day can be met with mixed emotions. But what if we were open to exploring the aspects of our own heritage, as well as the heritage of those around us, to understand ourselves and each other better?
Read more about The power of heritage in South Africa
We need our elders' stories
When elders share their stories, it bridges generational gaps, fosters understanding, and creates a sense of continuity between the past, present and future.
Read more about We need our elders' stories
Grace and compassion – the cornerstones in my mental health journey
Akona did not let an attempted carjacking and psychotic episode derail her from being the mother her son deserves.
Read more about Grace and compassion – the cornerstones in my mental health journey
Sharing her story to heal the wounds of her past
She has no regrets about her past despite a childhood filled with abuse and trauma. Read more about Sharing her story to heal the wounds of her past
Foreign nationals talk about their struggles in finding a home away from home
The Sister Mura Foundation is providing medical, financial, and emotional support while upskilling foreign nationals living with HIV/AIDS in SA. Read more about Foreign nationals talk about their struggles in finding a home away from home
A dream deferred leads to a life of leadership and success
Olefile Masangane has achieved what he thought would be impossible.
Read more about A dream deferred leads to a life of leadership and success